Nigerians Should Reject Any Party That Zones Presidency To North – SMBLF

The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF) has asked Nigerians to reject any political party that zones its 2023 presidency to the North.

According to the forum, the South East should produce President Muhammadu Buhari’s successor, stressing that it is only fair for the region to produce the next president.

Naija News reports that the forum made the submission in a communique issued at the end of its meeting held in Abuja on Thursday.

SMBLF urged the people of Southern Nigeria and Middle Belt not to vote for any party that fails to zone its presidential ticket to the South.

The forum also warned political stakeholders from the South against aspirations or actions that would compromise the shared resolve of our people.

According to the communique, the forum also condemned the continued kidnappings and killings of innocent citizens and wanton destruction of livelihoods across the country by terrorists and criminals, especially in the North West, North East and Middle Belt region.

It also faulted the ongoing massacres and decimation of indigenous populations, especially in Zuru, Kebbi State, Southern Kaduna, Benue, Plateau and Southern Gombe,” while reiterating its call for state police.

The group urged the Federal Government to be alive to its primary responsibility of protecting the lives and properties of citizens by safeguarding all communities across the country.

SMBLF also appealed to the government to ensure the immediate return of displaced citizens to their ancestral homes.

The communique was signed by Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Leader of Afenifere (South West); Dr. Pogu Bitrus, President of the Middle Belt Forum (Middle Belt); Ambassador Okey Emuchay, Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo (South East); and Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, National Chairman of Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF (South South).